French Star Shines in Treble-Winning Season, But Faces Stiff Competition from Yamal and Salah
Paris Saint-Germain’s president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, has boldly declared that Ousmane Dembélé must win the Ballon d’Or—or something is seriously wrong with the prestigious award.
The 28-year-old forward was unstoppable last season, netting 33 goals and providing 15 assists as PSG secured a historic treble, including their first-ever UEFA Champions League title. Dembélé dazzled in the final with two assists in a 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan and delivered crucial goals against heavyweights like Liverpool and Arsenal along the way.
Yet despite his heroics, the Frenchman faces fierce competition for football’s top individual prize. Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and Liverpool’s prolific Mohamed Salah are among the leading contenders.
“There’s no doubt—Ousmane has to win it,” Al-Khelaifi told DAZN. “His season has been magnificent. If he doesn’t lift the Ballon d’Or, then there’s something wrong with the award itself.”
Dembélé, currently focused on PSG’s FIFA Club World Cup campaign, admitted the accolade is on his mind. “I know I’m close, but right now, the team’s goals come first,” he said. Another trophy could strengthen his case—and even boost teammate Vitinha’s outside chances.
But Barcelona’s 17-year-old phenom Yamal remains a major threat. The winger racked up 18 goals and 25 assists last season, guiding Barça to a domestic treble and a Champions League semifinal. Club legend Hristo Stoichkov even joked he’d “hand-deliver” the award to Yamal—though he warned the youngster still has room to grow.
As the race heats up, one thing is clear: this year’s Ballon d’Or decision won’t come easily.
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